AGOA extension a welcome boost for South African workers and the motor industry
17 August 2026
For Immediate Release
MISA, the Motor Industry Staff Association, welcomes the progress made towards extending the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which brings encouraging news for South African exporters and the many workers whose livelihoods depend on healthy trade.
The United States Senate has voted overwhelmingly in favour of a two-year extension of the programme.
"This is good news for workers and for the South African economy. Trade that flows freely means jobs are secure. Every vehicle and every component that leaves our shores supports a chain of employment that reaches right into our dealerships and workshops. Anything that strengthens South Africa's place in global trade is something workers can welcome,โ says Martlรฉ Keyter, MISAโs Chief Executive Officer: Operations.
AGOA allows eligible African countries, including South Africa, to export qualifying goods to the United States without paying import duties. It has been a valuable pillar of the South African economy and the automotive sector is one of its largest beneficiaries. After a period of uncertainty for exporters, this development offers a measure of reassurance to industries and workers who rely on stable access to international markets.
While much of the attention has focused on agriculture and vehicle manufacturing, MISA emphasises that the benefits extend deep into the retail motor sector. A strong automotive export trade sustains demand across the entire value chain, supporting jobs in dealerships, workshops, parts distribution and related services that employ hundreds of thousands of South Africans. When our exporters can trade with confidence, the whole industry benefits and so do the workers and families who depend on it.
MISA is committed to championing the interests of workers in the motor industry and to supporting the growth of a sector that is a vital source of employment and opportunity for South Africans. Stable trade means secure jobs and that is what matters most to our members.
Issued by Sonja Carstens, Manager: MISA Media & Communication Department, on behalf of the Union.
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